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Get closer to the this season by using Pulse while you watch the LIVE matches. Pulse asks you a range of questions relevant to the LIVE action as it unfolds. Your votes will be featured in the telecast in real-time and debated by the commentators, players and stars. If you've got a great question of your own, we'd love to hear it.

Warne’s had a great influence: Dravid

RR captain acknowledges predecessor’s contribution

By IPL desk

Mumbai 06 March 2012

Rahul Dravid led Team India in 25 Tests and 79 ODIs. He then captained the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the inaugural edition of the IPL, in 2008. The batting legend is now back at the helm, leading Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2012.

It’s been a while since Dravid’s assumed the role of leader, but the legend is unperturbed by the hiatus.

"Yes, I am leading a side for the first time after 2008, but that doesn't make a difference at all. I am mentally prepared and geared up for the challenge," Dravid said at the launch of the Royals’ new jersey for IPL 2012.

Dravid takes over the reins of the Royals from Shane Warne, who captained and mentored the side for four IPL seasons, also leading them to the crown in 2008. Dravid appreciates the work put in by the Australian legend in creating the team that he is now in charge of.

"Warnie has had a great influence. I've also learnt a lot in the little time I spent with him last season. I even had a chat with him while I was in Australia recently. There are a lot of things that he shared and I am hopeful that this bunch will come good," Dravid said.

Joining Dravid at the jersey launch was S Sreesanth, picked up by the franchise at the IPL Player Auction 2012. Commenting on what he expects from the talented but volatile Indian medium pacer, Dravid said, "Sree has been a world-class performer and is capable of taking wickets with the new ball. That is what counts in any form of the game. I expect him to take a lot of wickets for us and help us repeat our success in the first edition.”

Pune Warriors sign on Rawat

Keeper-batsman to play for PWI in IPL 2012

By IPL desk

Mumbai 06 March 2012

Pune Warriors India have signed wicketkeeper-batsman Mahesh Rawat for the fifth edition of the Indian Premier League. The 26-year-old played for the Rajasthan Royals in the first two editions of the IPL, making a total of sixteen appearances for the Rajasthan Royals in two seasons.

The Railways keeper caught the eye of the Pune Warriors after some consistent displays in the Ranji Trophy. He also set a national record during the Central Zone leg of the National ODI championship where he took seven catches for Railways against Madhya Pradesh in Nagpur last month.

After a two-year absence from the biggest T20 league in the world, Rawat is revving up for IPL 2012. "I am very excited to be back in the IPL fold. I will definitely give my 100 per cent and play my natural game in order to get a chance in the playing eleven," Rawat was quoted as saying.